Netflix has expanded its high dynamic range (HDR) offerings by adding support for HDR10+ streaming, joining the ranks of HDR10 and Dolby Vision formats already available on the platform. This update brings Netflix subscribers access to all three major HDR standards, promising a richer visual experience, especially for the streaming giant’s often moody and shadowy original programming.
HDR10+ Joins the Lineup
HDR10+ is the latest HDR format to hit Netflix, enhancing the existing HDR10 and Dolby Vision options. Unlike standard HDR10, which applies a single brightness and contrast setting across an entire video, HDR10+ adjusts these elements on a per-frame basis. This dynamic approach delivers greater visual fidelity, ensuring that dark scenes—common in Netflix originals like prestige dramas—retain clarity and detail, avoiding the murky look that can plague non-HDR content.
Netflix is rolling out HDR10+ support starting with select popular titles, with plans to eventually extend it to all HDR-compatible content. Subscribers with a Netflix Premium plan and a device supporting both HDR10+ and the AV1 codec—such as most modern smartphones, tablets, and smart TVs—can now enjoy this upgraded viewing experience.
Powered by AV1 Codec
To make HDR10+ streaming possible, Netflix is leveraging the AV1 codec, a compression technology first introduced in 2018. Originally adopted to help mobile users save data while streaming 4K video, AV1 has since become an industry standard for delivering high-quality content efficiently. Its ability to compress large HDR files without sacrificing quality makes it an ideal match for HDR10+, ensuring subscribers get stunning visuals without overwhelming their internet bandwidth.
Why HDR Matters
High Dynamic Range has become a defining feature of modern television and film, particularly in the streaming era. HDR enhances the contrast between the brightest and darkest parts of an image, bringing out details that might otherwise be lost. Without HDR, scenes can appear under-exposed or muddy—issues that are especially noticeable in today’s cinematic TV productions, where shades of gray and intricate lighting are the norm. With HDR, viewers get a more immersive, lifelike picture that aligns with the creative vision behind the content.
Netflix has been a leader in HDR streaming since 2016, when it debuted the technology with Marco Polo. Since then, supporting HDR10 and Dolby Vision has become standard across the platform. The addition of HDR10+ further solidifies Netflix’s commitment to top-tier picture quality.
What It Means for Viewers
For those already watching Netflix on devices that support Dolby Vision, the shift to HDR10+ may not feel drastic, as both formats offer dynamic HDR capabilities. However, if your TV or device is optimized for HDR10+ rather than Dolby Vision, this update should noticeably improve your viewing experience. Dark scenes will pop with greater depth, and subtle details will stand out more clearly.
Looking Forward
With HDR10+ now in the mix, Netflix offers unparalleled flexibility, supporting all three leading HDR formats—HDR10, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision. This ensures compatibility with a wide range of devices and caters to diverse viewer preferences. As Netflix continues to expand its HDR10+ catalog, subscribers can look forward to enjoying their favorite shows and movies in even more vivid detail.
To take advantage of this upgrade, check if your device supports HDR10+ and AV1, and dive into Netflix’s growing selection of enhanced titles. The future of streaming just got a little brighter—and a lot clearer.
